The Illinois State Journal-Register is reporting that there will likely be pari-mutuel betting on racing at the Illinois State Fair and Du Quoin State Fair, and that Maywood Park may be the contractor after it finally got paid by the Department of Agriculture for its work there in 2009.

The Illinois Racing Board, which had its budget drastically cut this year, and which must assign personnel to the oversight of race betting, is the key. The Board will have to okay paying staff to monitor wagering at the fairs.

“Our fiscal people are looking at it, as far as affordability, if we will be able to award those racing dates,” said Marc Laino, executive director of the Board. “The Department of Agriculture has agreed to pick up some expenses. We are working it out.”